In 1970, Botswana ranked as one of the world's poorest countries, with a shocking GDP per capita per annum below US$200. Educational facilities were minimal, with less than 2% of the population having completed primary school and fewer than 100 students enrolled in university. In the entire country there was only one, 12km-long paved road. It's hardly suprising, then that the country played no role in regional or continental politics.
Then in 1967, Botswana effectively won the jackpot with the discovery of diamonds at Orapa. Two other major mines followed, at Letlhakane in 1977, and Jwaneng in 1982, making Botswana the world's leading producer of gem-quality stones.
However, as its life span is estimated at only 35 years, the diamond boon has its dark side as Botswana faces a bleak future if its people can't find alternative revenue steams. Tourism is set to play a major role in the country's future, although the challenge will be to increase revenue without adversely impacting on the enviroment and local communities.
With nearly 30% of the population still living below the poverty line the future of Botswana is less assured now than it has been at any time in the last 40 years.
